One of the most gruelling and daunting races from across the world, the Rainforest Challenge or RFC is well known to most rally enthusiasts. After marking it’s presence on the international circuit with stages being held at Malaysia, Italy, Russia, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tunisia, China and Australia, this prestigious 4×4 event is coming to India.
Starting off from the 7th of August, the RFC is expected to have around 50 participating teams from both India and abroad, with the race split into 30 special stages (SS). The course is designed to test the mental fortitude and physical fitness of the drivers to the limit. As such it is full of twists, turns, and obstacles, and takes place in hot and humid conditions in dense forest areas. The objective for the team is to score the highest points across each stage by clocking the fastest times across each stage.
Cougar Motorsport which is based out of India and has been a part of the local motorsport scene for a while now is handling the local leg of the RFC. Ashish Gupta, Director, Cougar Motorsports spoke about the event, he said, “It is a matter of pride for all of us to see India on the global RFC map. All 4×4 enthusiasts in India aspire to participate in the Rainforest Challenge but it is difficult for them to travel abroad with their vehicles and be a part of this mega international event. With RFC coming to India, they will get to experience the same level of extreme off-roading and competition as the mother event in Malaysia right here on their home ground.”
Registrations for the event have already begun, and the entry fees are Rs.84,270 for the Competitor 4×4 vehicle category for 2 people, or $2,593 for foreign nationals, Rs.28,090 ($864) for the Touring Adventurers 4×4 vehicle category for 2 people and Rs.11,236 ($346) for the 4×4 vehicle Service Team.
Story: Harket Suchde
Photography: Gaurav Nagpal
